Walking above cliffs at Beachy Head on the South Downs Way. Photograph: Alamy

Tell me about it. Lace up your hiking boots and get stomping through the South Downs national park. A new walking festival launches on 27 September (sussexwalkingfestival.org.uk), with 50 events over two weekends … Nordic walking, anyone? The park was declared a Unesco biosphere reserve in June (which must mean it’s pretty special) and is rich in ancient woodland and rolling farmland – perfect for an early autumn walk.

And a bite to eat? Tuck into a burger or locally farmed rib-eye steak at the Pelham Arms in Lewes, or enjoy stately grandeur, fine food and reasonable prices at Stanmer House, a Grade-I-listed mansion near Brighton.

Anywhere to stay for under £100?Twytten House is a rather special B&B in Wilmington, which just sneaks in with three doubles at £100: one self-contained in the walled garden and the French owner cooks up a never-ending breakfast a night. The Griffin Inn in historic Fletching is a good bet (rooms from £70), with tasty fodder for tired walkers.

Anything else I should know? Vines love Sussex’s chalky soil, and several vineyards are open to visitors, such as the new Rathfinny estate near Alfriston.

Do I need a car? Train’s your best bet. Southern Rail runs from London to Brighton, Eastbourne, Chichester and Lewes – and the buses are good. •See southdowns.gov.uk for bus, cycling and walking routes